California has seen a marked increase in underground gambling dens, sometimes known as slaphouses, in recent years. Its rare to have a patron who does not use or sell methamphetamine inside these locations., We have taken down the illegal gambling dens, and we have lifted a weight off our neighborhoods, said Acting US Attorney Randy Grossman. We'll send you the top local news stories every morning at 8 a.m. By clicking subscribe, you agree to share your email address with Times of San Diego to receive our free newsletter and breaking news alerts. For firearms charges: Ten years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. All rights reserved, Beaches Up and Down San Diego County Closed After Sewage Spills, Watch Live: Maya Millete Case Updates During Larry Millete's Hearing on Murder Charge, SUV Appears Split in Half After Oceanside Crash That Killed Mom, 6-Year-Old, Injured 4 Others, That's Where She Told Me That She Needs a Place to Live,' Maya Millete's Sister-in-Law Testifies. An official website of the United States government. Whoops! SAN DIEGO Federal authorities unsealed indictments Thursday against 85 alleged members of East San Diego County drug distribution and money laundering networks linked to the Sinaloa. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton and Adam Gordon. In total, authorities seized 2.1 kilograms of methamphetamine, 160 grams of heroin, and nine firearms tied to these defendants during the investigation. Three of the indicted individuals were already in custody prior to the takedown. Alexander Michael Randise, 29, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court last year to a fentanyl distribution charge, stemming from the December 2021 death of Tyber Joseph Lustig, U.S. District Court Judge Larry Burns ruled the 2021 law did not violate gun owners rights under the Second Amendment, Preliminary hearing of Larry Millete, who has pleaded not guilty to murdering his missing wife Maya Millete, could run two weeks or longer. According to court documents and statements made in court, in April and May 2021, Corson sold quantities of methamphetamine and. A lock ( "The defendants in this case used cars and motorcycles with hidden compartments, they used trains, commercial airlines, the U.S. mail and commercial delivery services like FedEx and UPS to deliver their deadly methamphetamine. 12.23.2022. Possession with Intent to Distribute (Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, San Diego County District Attorneys Office. DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1404-DMS. They also seized methamphetamine, heroin and firearms as part of the investigation. Grand Jury. Prosecutors say the defendants used services like Signal and WhatsApp to communicate with each other in order to avoid law enforcement detection. The indictments allege that many of these gambling locations were taking in thousands of dollars a day. 952, 960 and 963; Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1411-DMS, DEFENDANT Case Number: 21CR1412-DMS, DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1413-DMS, DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1414-DMS. Agents and officers from the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force-Gang Group, San Diego Police Department, San Diego Sherriffs Department, National City Police Department, Chula Vista Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, San Diego County Probation and the San Diego County District Attorneys Office collaborated on this investigation. (Courtesy of Mexico Attorney Generals Office), Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, A 2023 San Diego bucket list of things to do for a more adventurous year, Interactive map of all homicides in San Diego County since 2010, Fat Leonard, set to finally be sentenced in long-running Navy bribery scheme, is on the lam, High-ranking cartel leader, cousin of drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero, sentenced to time served. There was an error and we couldn't process your subscription. DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1409-DMS, DEFENDANT Case Number: 21CR1410-DMS. June 15, 2021 4:10 PM PT Four men alleged to be leaders in a Mexican cartel enforcement cell have been indicted in San Diego on drug-trafficking charges and are accused of orchestrating a. Specifically, on June 8, 2021, a federal grand jury indictment resulting from the sting operation was unsealed in San Diego. Edgar Herrera Pardo oversaw a group of enforcers called Los Cabos who worked to secure the Baja California corridor for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, according to prosecutors. According to the warrant, the use and sale of methamphetamine is intrinsically linked to slaphouses and acts as a draw to bring customers to the venues. No Thanks But lawyers for the hospital say the medical records show he was unconscious. Sutton said that the lead defendant in the case, Reyes Espinoza, was the one with the alleged ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and was the main supplier and served as a conduit, the main source of supply for the meth ring, responsible for importing hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine into San Diego every week. 12.15.2022. Of the 35 people arrested, 15 are part of the indicted group, and the others were arrests for state offenses. Federal Office Building The charges, which were recently unsealed, include conspiracy to import and distribute heroin and methamphetamine. Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. Federal Office Building Maximum Penalties: For Conspiracy Charge: Five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The 19-count indictment charges a total of 19 defendants with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence and a statutory maximum penalty of life imprisonment. 952 and 960; Maximum Penalties: For the drug charges: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. The trio was tortured for about two hours before being killed, according to the Baja California Attorney Generals Office. The U.S. Attorneys Office said 38 defendants remain outstanding as of Thursday afternoon. He NEVER lets me be by myself. 841(a)(1) and 846; Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. Maximum Penalties: For Maintaining Drug Involved Premises Charges: Five years imprisonment and a $500,000 fine. MCC San Diego is a prison complex that contains An administrative security metropolitan correctional center. This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated. Also arrested were alleged drug dealers who operated within the dens. ) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Maximum Penalties: For the drug charges: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. Please reload the page and try again. Gangs, drugs, and illegal firearms are infesting many of our neighborhoods and creating a violent culture that is unsafe for residents, said Acting U.S. Attorney Randy S. Grossman. A consumer advocacy group had sought emails, meeting schedules and other records after The San Diego Union-Tribune reported that the insurance commissioner had accepted political contributions from insurers and intervened in administrative cases to benefit some donors. ", "San Diego is one of nine major transportation-hub cities identified under DEA's Operation Crystal Shield," said John Callery, Special Agent in Charge of DEAs San Diego Field Division. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. As of Thursday afternoon, 17 of the 23 defendants all identified as San Diego residents ranging in age from 23 to 60 were in federal or state custody. Maximum Penalties: Importation of Methamphetamine Charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. SAN DIEGO - A federal grand jury has indicted 47 people who are allegedly associated with illegal gambling establishments that are closely tied to gangs, drugs and violence in San Diego neighborhoods. 60 Members of Alleged San Diego Meth Ring Linked to Sinaloa Cartel Indicted, Top Sinaloa Cartel Money Launderer Sentenced to Over 15 Years in Prison, MexicoArrests Ovidio Guzman, Son of El Chapo and Sinaloa Cartel Leader, Alleged Drug Trafficker Extradited to San Diego From Argentina, U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of California, Opinion: Three Ways that California Can Prepare for Future Atmospheric Rivers, Sister-in-Law of Missing Chula Vista Woman Testifies at Millete Hearing, San Diego State University Launches Online Cyber Tech Academy, Husband-and-Wife Team to Star in Disney on Ice in San Diego, San Diego Foundation: $3.5 Million in Scholarships Available, Santee YMCA Closing Early, Fearing Rally Clashes Over Teen's Report, Trans Rights, Opinion: SunbreakRanchIs the Answer to San Diego -- and Americas -- Homeless Crisis, Opinion: Latest Chargers Loss a Reminder of Why San Diego Fans Let Them Leave, Family of 6, Including New Baby, Dead in Drug Cartel Massacre in Central Valley, San Diego Police Shoot, Kill Man, 77, Sought in Younger Woman's Fatal Stabbing, Parcels Near Cal State San Marcos Sold for Nearly $6M in Area Slated for Redevelopment, Fundraiser for Former San Diego Police Officer Darnell Calhoun Passes $150K, Heavy Rain Runoff and Sewage Spills Close Beaches Across San Diego Area, Three More Arrests Made in Alleged Large-Scale Theft, Robbery Ring, California Braces for Last 2 'Atmospheric River' Storms Amid Hopes for Drought to Ease, Proudly powered by Newspack by Automattic. If you sell drugs in San Diego, we will find you and prosecute you to the full extent of the law.. Long is a reputed member of the V-Boys Vietnamese street gang, who has previous convictions for illegal gambling and drugs, according to the affidavit. Some of that violence was aimed at three teenagers on Nov. 24, 2018. We are committed to dismantling violent gangs and holding their members accountable for criminal conduct., The FBI is proud to work alongside our local, state, and federal partners on the Violent Crimes Task Force to address the gang problem and rid our streets of the overflow of drugs and guns which continue to plague our communities, said FBI Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner. He pleaded guilty in July 2022 to one count of interstate domestic violence resulting in death and was sentenced Thursday by U.S. District . The operation resulted in 35 arrests and charges against 47 people, according to federal indictments unsealed Wednesday. According to the indictment returned on May 5 and unsealed today, from April to August 2020, lead defendants Timoteo Gomez, 48, of Riverside, and Javier Rodriguez, a.k.a. 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Many of these gang have long-standing ties to the Mexican Mafia. A locked padlock lawyer found dead in Mexico speaks, O.C. The war for Tijuana has grown into an intense three-way battle with the involvement of two remnant factions of the once-controlling Arellano Flix Organization one is aligned with the CJNG against Sinaloa and the other is hoping to subdue both major cartels. As a result of the collaboration of federal, state and local law enforcement officials, law-abiding citizens who live in these neighborhoods will be safer without these magnets for crime in their midst. As of Thursday. Reporters Notebook: California border remains top fentanyl trafficking gateway into U.S. Judge sentences boat pilot to 18 years in prison for three smuggling deaths, Truth or a simple dream? Toll Free (800) 544-1106 Grossman said law enforcement has seized more than 200 pounds of methamphetamine, 90 firearms and more than $200,000 during the investigation. The Grand Jury investigates the operations of governmental programs of the County, cities and special districts. However, surveillance, phone records, financial documents, undercover agents and wiretaps were utilized to track the defendants communications and locations, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. SAN DIEGO Eleven federal indictments unsealed in San Diego today charge twenty-three documented gang members and associates with heroin, methamphetamine and firearms trafficking. According to court records, it is common for gambling den owners to pay rent in cash to the owners of these properties and, in some cases, a percentage of the profits to cast a blind eye to all the foot traffic. Twelve were arrested this week, including nine this morning; the rest were already in custody. Nearly a dozen federal indictments were unsealed in San Diego Thursday charging 23 documented gang members and associates with trafficking drugs and firearms, with the defendants largely hailing from gangs operating in the South Bay region. Incentives for staying, playing and dining local, Local students can apply for 140+ college scholarships, Lisa Marie Presleys death deferred by L.A. coroner, Family of O.C. Maximum Penalties: For Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Charges: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. The members of law enforcement at the news conference were flanked by two tables bristling with firearms of all types, as well as boxes at their feet bearing more weapons. Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substance, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 808 UNION STREET SAN DIEGO, CA, 92101. Authorities have also seized drugs, cash and guns in connection with the investigation. 841(a)(1)). The defendants are charged in two separate indictments with submitting fraudulent claims to California's Employment Development Department. The U.S. Attorneys Office reported that 44 of the 60 defendants were in custody as of Tuesday, with dozens of defendants arrested over the past month in five states. The fourth alleged leader, Israel Alejandro Vazquez-Vazquez, is charged separately in a March 2021 indictment. Official websites use .gov Name, email and comment will be stored in our database. Alexander Yoichi Duberek, 25, was indicted in September 2021. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. As of today at 1 p.m., 17 of the 23 defendants are either in federal or state custody. Felon in Possession of a Firearms and Ammunition (18, U.S.C., Secs. Doctor and Office Manager Indicted in Scheme to Defraud Medicare, Manufacture and Distribute Fentanyl. 1955), Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. This yearlong investigation involved federal wiretaps, dozens of undercover drug and gun buys and extensive surveillance. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2); Maximum Penalties: For firearms charges: 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. San Diego County residents face federal charges in . Importation of Methamphetamine (Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. Those arrested today include the owners of the businesses and employees who acted as doormen, security and bankers; those who audit the machines; and those who collect the money. Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine (Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. Christopher Alexis Gomez, 17, and Juan Suarez-Ojeda, 18, both U.S. citizens from San Diego, and Angel Said Robles, 17, of Tijuana were in a Tijuana apartment when a group of people burst in. There was an error and we couldn't process your subscription. DEFENDANT Case Number: 21CR1406-DMS, DEFENDANT Case Number: 21CR1407-DMS, DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1408-DMS. Grossman said that Assistant U.S. Attorney and Matthew J. Sutton will be one of the lead prosecutors on the case. As a result of the collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement officials, law-abiding citizens who live in these neighborhoods will be safer without these magnets for crime in their midst.. These collaborative efforts continue to make our communities safe.. Prosecutors said many of the defendants are either members or associates of gangs -- many of which have "longstanding ties to the Mexican Mafia" -- operating out of National City, San Ysidro and other areas. The governments case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. The main draw to illegal gambling establishments is methamphetamine use and sales, according to the indictments. The investigative work led by the Violent Crimes Task Force and the arrests made have created a safer environment for all of our communities., This joint operation is a prime example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement works together to respond to community concerns over increased crime in their neighborhoods, said San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan. The FBI disrupted two dozen illegal gambling dens in San Diego Wednesday morning in sweeping raids across the city. 841(a)(1)). Herrera, known by the Spanish moniker El Caimn, which translates to The Alligator, was arrested in Mexico in 2019 with his former beauty-queen girlfriend aboard a bus in the city of Quertaro. We have taken down the illegal gambling dens, and we have lifted a weight off our neighborhoods, said Acting U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Main Office: Your email address will not be published. A mugshot of Edgar El Caiman Herrera Pardo from his 2019 arrest in Mexico. The three others with nicknames that reference apparent membership in Los Cabos, such as Cabo 96 and Cabo 89 remain at large. Learn more about how we use cookies in our cookie policy. natives documentary captures The Art of Grieving, Disneyland release new details about centennial celebration, City sewage spill closes San Diego Bay, other beaches, Orange County man shot by police pulled gun, Live: Larry Millete preliminary hearing continues, Motorcyclist killed in North County crash, Suspect shot, killed while reaching for shotgun:, Drivers press their luck in Mission Valley flooding, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The Task Force is a joint federal and state gang task force that includes the FBI; the Drug Enforcement Administration; IRS Criminal Investigation; the Riverside County Sheriffs Department; and the Riverside Police Department. 922(g)(1). Have a question about Government Services? Three other defendants were already in federal or state custody on unrelated charges, and federal prosecutors will seek to have them brought into federal court. In total, law enforcement seized more than 150 pounds (68 kilograms) of methamphetamine and $31,035 in cash during this investigation. One has pleaded guilty and the other is awaiting trial. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton (619) 546-8941 and Adam Gordon (619) 546-6720 NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY - May 27, 2021 SAN DIEGO - Eleven federal indictments unsealed in San Diego today charge twenty-three documented gang members and associates with heroin, methamphetamine and firearms trafficking. "Distribution networks like this one are the arms of violent cartels, reaching out into our communities," Grossman said. He was previously designated under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act for allegedly laundering money for top cartel leaders, including Joaquin "El Chapo'' Guzman Loera, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Subscribe Four defendants are fugitives. Prosecutors said many of the defendants are either members or associates of gangs, some of which have longstanding ties to the Mexican Mafia. They operated out of South Bay communities including National City and San Ysidro. Maximum Penalties: For firearms charges: Ten years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton (619) 546-8941 and Adam Gordon (619) 546-6720. So far, 44 of the 60 defendants are already in state or federal custody, the prosecutor said. Maximum Penalties: For Possession with Intent to Distribute Charge: 40 years imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a $5 million fine. Los Cabos also frequently targeted law enforcement in Tijuana and are accused of killing at least three police officers, according to prosecutors. Our DA team worked tirelessly with the Violent Crimes Task Force and the U.S. Attorneys Office assisting with critical search warrants during the course of this operation.. Enter address: This website, like most media sites, uses small files called cookies to anonymously customize the advertising that you see. 841(a)(1)). 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An official website of the United States government. 841(a)(1). A locked padlock I am particularly grateful to FBI Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner, SDPD Chief David Nisleit, and District Attorney Summer Stephan for their work on this investigation and their dedication to keeping our community safe., These gambling dens were not only host to illegal gambling, but a hub for a variety of other criminal activity to include drug trafficking and unlawful possession of firearms, said FBI Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner. Those arrested are slated to be arraigned in San Diego federal court Friday afternoon. All rights reserved, $51.3M Erased From Overdue SDG&E Bills. These establishments are equipped with electronic gambling machines which are programmed with several games of chance such as poker, blackjack, keno, jacks or better, and slot games. The indictment details the conspirators efforts in April 2020 to smuggle 46.6 pounds (21.2 kilograms) of methamphetamine from Mexico across the U.S port of entry at Calexico and into Riverside County. Many of the defendants are documented members or associates of violent South Bay street gangs operating out of National City, San Ysidro, and elsewhere. "They're also supplying a deadly stream of methamphetamine and other deadly drugs. Maximum Penalties: For Distribution of Methamphetamine Charges: Forty years imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a $5 million fine. Please reload the page and try again. Meth, Firearm Result in 10 Years of Prison January 03, 2023 JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. The indictments are part of a yearlong investigation involving wiretaps, undercover drug and gun purchases and extensive surveillance, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. As of Thursday afternoon, 17 of the 23 defendants -- all identified as San Diego residents ranging in age from 23 to 60 -- were in federal or state custody, with a dozen of the defendants. With the generous support of readers like you, Times of San Diego publishes timely and accurate news coverage for a better-informed community. 841(a)(1); Importation of Heroin, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. The crackdown announced today is the latest in a series of efforts by the Department of Justice to turn the tide of the opioid epidemic and reduce the inevitable violent crime that accompanies widespread drug trafficking. The drug-trafficking organization, known by its Spanish initials CJNG, has risen in influence in recent years and has been battling the more entrenched Sinaloa Cartel for control of the lucrative Tijuana-San Diego smuggling route.
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California has seen a marked increase in underground gambling dens, sometimes known as slaphouses, in recent years. Its rare to have a patron who does not use or sell methamphetamine inside these locations., We have taken down the illegal gambling dens, and we have lifted a weight off our neighborhoods, said Acting US Attorney Randy Grossman. We'll send you the top local news stories every morning at 8 a.m. By clicking subscribe, you agree to share your email address with Times of San Diego to receive our free newsletter and breaking news alerts. For firearms charges: Ten years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. All rights reserved, Beaches Up and Down San Diego County Closed After Sewage Spills, Watch Live: Maya Millete Case Updates During Larry Millete's Hearing on Murder Charge, SUV Appears Split in Half After Oceanside Crash That Killed Mom, 6-Year-Old, Injured 4 Others, That's Where She Told Me That She Needs a Place to Live,' Maya Millete's Sister-in-Law Testifies. An official website of the United States government. Whoops! SAN DIEGO Federal authorities unsealed indictments Thursday against 85 alleged members of East San Diego County drug distribution and money laundering networks linked to the Sinaloa. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton and Adam Gordon. In total, authorities seized 2.1 kilograms of methamphetamine, 160 grams of heroin, and nine firearms tied to these defendants during the investigation. Three of the indicted individuals were already in custody prior to the takedown. Alexander Michael Randise, 29, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court last year to a fentanyl distribution charge, stemming from the December 2021 death of Tyber Joseph Lustig, U.S. District Court Judge Larry Burns ruled the 2021 law did not violate gun owners rights under the Second Amendment, Preliminary hearing of Larry Millete, who has pleaded not guilty to murdering his missing wife Maya Millete, could run two weeks or longer. According to court documents and statements made in court, in April and May 2021, Corson sold quantities of methamphetamine and. A lock ( "The defendants in this case used cars and motorcycles with hidden compartments, they used trains, commercial airlines, the U.S. mail and commercial delivery services like FedEx and UPS to deliver their deadly methamphetamine. 12.23.2022. Possession with Intent to Distribute (Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, San Diego County District Attorneys Office. DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1404-DMS. They also seized methamphetamine, heroin and firearms as part of the investigation. Grand Jury. Prosecutors say the defendants used services like Signal and WhatsApp to communicate with each other in order to avoid law enforcement detection. The indictments allege that many of these gambling locations were taking in thousands of dollars a day. 952, 960 and 963; Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1411-DMS, DEFENDANT Case Number: 21CR1412-DMS, DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1413-DMS, DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1414-DMS. Agents and officers from the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force-Gang Group, San Diego Police Department, San Diego Sherriffs Department, National City Police Department, Chula Vista Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Prisons, San Diego County Probation and the San Diego County District Attorneys Office collaborated on this investigation. (Courtesy of Mexico Attorney Generals Office), Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, A 2023 San Diego bucket list of things to do for a more adventurous year, Interactive map of all homicides in San Diego County since 2010, Fat Leonard, set to finally be sentenced in long-running Navy bribery scheme, is on the lam, High-ranking cartel leader, cousin of drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero, sentenced to time served. There was an error and we couldn't process your subscription. DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1409-DMS, DEFENDANT Case Number: 21CR1410-DMS. June 15, 2021 4:10 PM PT Four men alleged to be leaders in a Mexican cartel enforcement cell have been indicted in San Diego on drug-trafficking charges and are accused of orchestrating a. Specifically, on June 8, 2021, a federal grand jury indictment resulting from the sting operation was unsealed in San Diego. Edgar Herrera Pardo oversaw a group of enforcers called Los Cabos who worked to secure the Baja California corridor for the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, according to prosecutors. According to the warrant, the use and sale of methamphetamine is intrinsically linked to slaphouses and acts as a draw to bring customers to the venues. No Thanks But lawyers for the hospital say the medical records show he was unconscious. Sutton said that the lead defendant in the case, Reyes Espinoza, was the one with the alleged ties to the Sinaloa Cartel and was the main supplier and served as a conduit, the main source of supply for the meth ring, responsible for importing hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine into San Diego every week. 12.15.2022. Of the 35 people arrested, 15 are part of the indicted group, and the others were arrests for state offenses. Federal Office Building
The charges, which were recently unsealed, include conspiracy to import and distribute heroin and methamphetamine. Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C., Secs. Federal Office Building
Maximum Penalties: For Conspiracy Charge: Five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The 19-count indictment charges a total of 19 defendants with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence and a statutory maximum penalty of life imprisonment. 952 and 960; Maximum Penalties: For the drug charges: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. The trio was tortured for about two hours before being killed, according to the Baja California Attorney Generals Office. The U.S. Attorneys Office said 38 defendants remain outstanding as of Thursday afternoon. He NEVER lets me be by myself. 841(a)(1) and 846; Distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. Maximum Penalties: For Maintaining Drug Involved Premises Charges: Five years imprisonment and a $500,000 fine. MCC San Diego is a prison complex that contains An administrative security metropolitan correctional center. This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated. Also arrested were alleged drug dealers who operated within the dens. ) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Maximum Penalties: For the drug charges: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. Please reload the page and try again. Gangs, drugs, and illegal firearms are infesting many of our neighborhoods and creating a violent culture that is unsafe for residents, said Acting U.S. Attorney Randy S. Grossman. A consumer advocacy group had sought emails, meeting schedules and other records after The San Diego Union-Tribune reported that the insurance commissioner had accepted political contributions from insurers and intervened in administrative cases to benefit some donors. ", "San Diego is one of nine major transportation-hub cities identified under DEA's Operation Crystal Shield," said John Callery, Special Agent in Charge of DEAs San Diego Field Division. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. As of Thursday afternoon, 17 of the 23 defendants all identified as San Diego residents ranging in age from 23 to 60 were in federal or state custody. Maximum Penalties: Importation of Methamphetamine Charges: life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. SAN DIEGO - A federal grand jury has indicted 47 people who are allegedly associated with illegal gambling establishments that are closely tied to gangs, drugs and violence in San Diego neighborhoods. 60 Members of Alleged San Diego Meth Ring Linked to Sinaloa Cartel Indicted, Top Sinaloa Cartel Money Launderer Sentenced to Over 15 Years in Prison, MexicoArrests Ovidio Guzman, Son of El Chapo and Sinaloa Cartel Leader, Alleged Drug Trafficker Extradited to San Diego From Argentina, U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of California, Opinion: Three Ways that California Can Prepare for Future Atmospheric Rivers, Sister-in-Law of Missing Chula Vista Woman Testifies at Millete Hearing, San Diego State University Launches Online Cyber Tech Academy, Husband-and-Wife Team to Star in Disney on Ice in San Diego, San Diego Foundation: $3.5 Million in Scholarships Available, Santee YMCA Closing Early, Fearing Rally Clashes Over Teen's Report, Trans Rights, Opinion: SunbreakRanchIs the Answer to San Diego -- and Americas -- Homeless Crisis, Opinion: Latest Chargers Loss a Reminder of Why San Diego Fans Let Them Leave, Family of 6, Including New Baby, Dead in Drug Cartel Massacre in Central Valley, San Diego Police Shoot, Kill Man, 77, Sought in Younger Woman's Fatal Stabbing, Parcels Near Cal State San Marcos Sold for Nearly $6M in Area Slated for Redevelopment, Fundraiser for Former San Diego Police Officer Darnell Calhoun Passes $150K, Heavy Rain Runoff and Sewage Spills Close Beaches Across San Diego Area, Three More Arrests Made in Alleged Large-Scale Theft, Robbery Ring, California Braces for Last 2 'Atmospheric River' Storms Amid Hopes for Drought to Ease, Proudly powered by Newspack by Automattic. If you sell drugs in San Diego, we will find you and prosecute you to the full extent of the law.. Long is a reputed member of the V-Boys Vietnamese street gang, who has previous convictions for illegal gambling and drugs, according to the affidavit. Some of that violence was aimed at three teenagers on Nov. 24, 2018. We are committed to dismantling violent gangs and holding their members accountable for criminal conduct., The FBI is proud to work alongside our local, state, and federal partners on the Violent Crimes Task Force to address the gang problem and rid our streets of the overflow of drugs and guns which continue to plague our communities, said FBI Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner. He pleaded guilty in July 2022 to one count of interstate domestic violence resulting in death and was sentenced Thursday by U.S. District . The operation resulted in 35 arrests and charges against 47 people, according to federal indictments unsealed Wednesday. According to the indictment returned on May 5 and unsealed today, from April to August 2020, lead defendants Timoteo Gomez, 48, of Riverside, and Javier Rodriguez, a.k.a. 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Many of these gang have long-standing ties to the Mexican Mafia. A locked padlock lawyer found dead in Mexico speaks, O.C. The war for Tijuana has grown into an intense three-way battle with the involvement of two remnant factions of the once-controlling Arellano Flix Organization one is aligned with the CJNG against Sinaloa and the other is hoping to subdue both major cartels. As a result of the collaboration of federal, state and local law enforcement officials, law-abiding citizens who live in these neighborhoods will be safer without these magnets for crime in their midst. As of Thursday. Reporters Notebook: California border remains top fentanyl trafficking gateway into U.S. Judge sentences boat pilot to 18 years in prison for three smuggling deaths, Truth or a simple dream? Toll Free (800) 544-1106
Grossman said law enforcement has seized more than 200 pounds of methamphetamine, 90 firearms and more than $200,000 during the investigation. The Grand Jury investigates the operations of governmental programs of the County, cities and special districts. However, surveillance, phone records, financial documents, undercover agents and wiretaps were utilized to track the defendants communications and locations, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. SAN DIEGO Eleven federal indictments unsealed in San Diego today charge twenty-three documented gang members and associates with heroin, methamphetamine and firearms trafficking. According to court records, it is common for gambling den owners to pay rent in cash to the owners of these properties and, in some cases, a percentage of the profits to cast a blind eye to all the foot traffic. Twelve were arrested this week, including nine this morning; the rest were already in custody. Nearly a dozen federal indictments were unsealed in San Diego Thursday charging 23 documented gang members and associates with trafficking drugs and firearms, with the defendants largely hailing from gangs operating in the South Bay region. Incentives for staying, playing and dining local, Local students can apply for 140+ college scholarships, Lisa Marie Presleys death deferred by L.A. coroner, Family of O.C. Maximum Penalties: For Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine Charges: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a $10 million fine. The members of law enforcement at the news conference were flanked by two tables bristling with firearms of all types, as well as boxes at their feet bearing more weapons. Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substance, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. 808 UNION STREET SAN DIEGO, CA, 92101. Authorities have also seized drugs, cash and guns in connection with the investigation. 841(a)(1)). The defendants are charged in two separate indictments with submitting fraudulent claims to California's Employment Development Department. The U.S. Attorneys Office reported that 44 of the 60 defendants were in custody as of Tuesday, with dozens of defendants arrested over the past month in five states. The fourth alleged leader, Israel Alejandro Vazquez-Vazquez, is charged separately in a March 2021 indictment. Official websites use .gov Name, email and comment will be stored in our database. Alexander Yoichi Duberek, 25, was indicted in September 2021. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. As of today at 1 p.m., 17 of the 23 defendants are either in federal or state custody. Felon in Possession of a Firearms and Ammunition (18, U.S.C., Secs. Doctor and Office Manager Indicted in Scheme to Defraud Medicare, Manufacture and Distribute Fentanyl. 1955), Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. This yearlong investigation involved federal wiretaps, dozens of undercover drug and gun buys and extensive surveillance. 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2); Maximum Penalties: For firearms charges: 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. San Diego County residents face federal charges in . Importation of Methamphetamine (Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. Those arrested today include the owners of the businesses and employees who acted as doormen, security and bankers; those who audit the machines; and those who collect the money. Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine (Title 21, U.S.C., Sec. Christopher Alexis Gomez, 17, and Juan Suarez-Ojeda, 18, both U.S. citizens from San Diego, and Angel Said Robles, 17, of Tijuana were in a Tijuana apartment when a group of people burst in. There was an error and we couldn't process your subscription. DEFENDANT Case Number: 21CR1406-DMS, DEFENDANT Case Number: 21CR1407-DMS, DEFENDANTS Case Number: 21CR1408-DMS. Grossman said that Assistant U.S. Attorney and Matthew J. Sutton will be one of the lead prosecutors on the case. As a result of the collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement officials, law-abiding citizens who live in these neighborhoods will be safer without these magnets for crime in their midst.. These collaborative efforts continue to make our communities safe.. Prosecutors said many of the defendants are either members or associates of gangs -- many of which have "longstanding ties to the Mexican Mafia" -- operating out of National City, San Ysidro and other areas. The governments case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. The main draw to illegal gambling establishments is methamphetamine use and sales, according to the indictments. The investigative work led by the Violent Crimes Task Force and the arrests made have created a safer environment for all of our communities., This joint operation is a prime example of what can be accomplished when law enforcement works together to respond to community concerns over increased crime in their neighborhoods, said San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan. The FBI disrupted two dozen illegal gambling dens in San Diego Wednesday morning in sweeping raids across the city. 841(a)(1)). Herrera, known by the Spanish moniker El Caimn, which translates to The Alligator, was arrested in Mexico in 2019 with his former beauty-queen girlfriend aboard a bus in the city of Quertaro. We have taken down the illegal gambling dens, and we have lifted a weight off our neighborhoods, said Acting U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Main Office:
Your email address will not be published. A mugshot of Edgar El Caiman Herrera Pardo from his 2019 arrest in Mexico. The three others with nicknames that reference apparent membership in Los Cabos, such as Cabo 96 and Cabo 89 remain at large. Learn more about how we use cookies in our cookie policy. natives documentary captures The Art of Grieving, Disneyland release new details about centennial celebration, City sewage spill closes San Diego Bay, other beaches, Orange County man shot by police pulled gun, Live: Larry Millete preliminary hearing continues, Motorcyclist killed in North County crash, Suspect shot, killed while reaching for shotgun:, Drivers press their luck in Mission Valley flooding, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The Task Force is a joint federal and state gang task force that includes the FBI; the Drug Enforcement Administration; IRS Criminal Investigation; the Riverside County Sheriffs Department; and the Riverside Police Department. 922(g)(1). Have a question about Government Services? Three other defendants were already in federal or state custody on unrelated charges, and federal prosecutors will seek to have them brought into federal court. In total, law enforcement seized more than 150 pounds (68 kilograms) of methamphetamine and $31,035 in cash during this investigation. One has pleaded guilty and the other is awaiting trial. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton (619) 546-8941 and Adam Gordon (619) 546-6720 NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY - May 27, 2021 SAN DIEGO - Eleven federal indictments unsealed in San Diego today charge twenty-three documented gang members and associates with heroin, methamphetamine and firearms trafficking. "Distribution networks like this one are the arms of violent cartels, reaching out into our communities," Grossman said. He was previously designated under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act for allegedly laundering money for top cartel leaders, including Joaquin "El Chapo'' Guzman Loera, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office. Subscribe Four defendants are fugitives. Prosecutors said many of the defendants are either members or associates of gangs, some of which have longstanding ties to the Mexican Mafia. They operated out of South Bay communities including National City and San Ysidro. Maximum Penalties: For firearms charges: Ten years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Matthew J. Sutton (619) 546-8941 and Adam Gordon (619) 546-6720. So far, 44 of the 60 defendants are already in state or federal custody, the prosecutor said. Maximum Penalties: For Possession with Intent to Distribute Charge: 40 years imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a $5 million fine. Los Cabos also frequently targeted law enforcement in Tijuana and are accused of killing at least three police officers, according to prosecutors. Our DA team worked tirelessly with the Violent Crimes Task Force and the U.S. Attorneys Office assisting with critical search warrants during the course of this operation.. Enter address: This website, like most media sites, uses small files called cookies to anonymously customize the advertising that you see. 841(a)(1)). 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An official website of the United States government. 841(a)(1). A locked padlock I am particularly grateful to FBI Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner, SDPD Chief David Nisleit, and District Attorney Summer Stephan for their work on this investigation and their dedication to keeping our community safe., These gambling dens were not only host to illegal gambling, but a hub for a variety of other criminal activity to include drug trafficking and unlawful possession of firearms, said FBI Special Agent in Charge Suzanne Turner. Those arrested are slated to be arraigned in San Diego federal court Friday afternoon. All rights reserved, $51.3M Erased From Overdue SDG&E Bills. These establishments are equipped with electronic gambling machines which are programmed with several games of chance such as poker, blackjack, keno, jacks or better, and slot games. The indictment details the conspirators efforts in April 2020 to smuggle 46.6 pounds (21.2 kilograms) of methamphetamine from Mexico across the U.S port of entry at Calexico and into Riverside County. Many of the defendants are documented members or associates of violent South Bay street gangs operating out of National City, San Ysidro, and elsewhere. "They're also supplying a deadly stream of methamphetamine and other deadly drugs. Maximum Penalties: For Distribution of Methamphetamine Charges: Forty years imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a $5 million fine. Please reload the page and try again. Meth, Firearm Result in 10 Years of Prison January 03, 2023 JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. The indictments are part of a yearlong investigation involving wiretaps, undercover drug and gun purchases and extensive surveillance, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. As of Thursday afternoon, 17 of the 23 defendants -- all identified as San Diego residents ranging in age from 23 to 60 -- were in federal or state custody, with a dozen of the defendants. With the generous support of readers like you, Times of San Diego publishes timely and accurate news coverage for a better-informed community. 841(a)(1); Importation of Heroin, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., Secs. The crackdown announced today is the latest in a series of efforts by the Department of Justice to turn the tide of the opioid epidemic and reduce the inevitable violent crime that accompanies widespread drug trafficking. The drug-trafficking organization, known by its Spanish initials CJNG, has risen in influence in recent years and has been battling the more entrenched Sinaloa Cartel for control of the lucrative Tijuana-San Diego smuggling route.
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